Trading Standards Officer

Full Vacancy Description

Job description      Trading Standards Officer

A qualified Trading Standards professional is required to join this small south London team, carrying out triage of referrals and notifications received from Citizens Advice, provide advice, carry out investigations, manage cases through to prosecution and appeal as required.

Face to face visits and also support for wider operations is required. Test purchasing operations experience with follow up case management would be welcome.

Please note that general enforcement or regulatory experience is not sufficient to carry out the full duties of this role.

A flexible approach, team working as well working on own initiative are desired. Some evening and weekend working is required.

Qualification

The Diploma in Consumer Affairs and Trading Standards (DCATS), a Consumer Protection degree or equivalent experience.

A suitable qualification to act as an Inspector of Weights and Measures

Key Knowledge

Knowledge and understanding of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE), the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA), Criminal Proceedings and Investigations Act (CPIA) and Human Rights Act (HRA).

Detailed knowledge of legislation enforced by Trading Standards, evidential and court procedures and an understanding of Proceeds of Crime, Money Laundering and related legislation.

Knowledge of the principles of primary authority arrangements

Relevant Experience

At least one year’s experience of working unsupervised when undertaking criminal investigations to a high professional standard.

This will include good knowledge, investigative skills and experience in identification of offences, gathering and recording evidence, interviewing suspects and preparing prosecution reports

Proven experience of trading standards work across the relevant consumer protection areas including :

•           Product Safety;

•           Fair Trading (Criminal);

•           Intellectual Property;

Metrology (where appropriately qualified).

Provide a helpful, competent service, sensitive to the needs and aspirations of our diverse communities.

Act with integrity and honesty when dealing with people

Able to deal with difficult situations involving conflict and potentially aggressive situations

Provide timely, appropriate and accurate responses and advice to colleagues, partners and service users.

Respect and help to achieve team goals and targets.

Be flexible, approachable and positive for own area of work and other services